Category: Pokémon Gold & Silver

The “Pokemon” series has bridged the generational gap since its introduction in the late ’90s, sporting some of the most subtly addictive gameplay this side of modern mobile titans and soundtracks that has resonated with adults and children alike. For the time, few games could contain such a raw sense of exploration or adventure, and we had the soundtracks to thank for building up such a strong atmosphere.

“Pokemon Gold” and “Pokemon Silver,” originally released in Japan for the Nintendo GameBoy in 1999, perfected the template laid out by their predecessors “Red,” “Yellow,” and “Blue.” More Pokémon, more areas to explore, new items to use or discover, and some new gameplay mechanics to smooth out the rough edges of the earlier titles — they had everything a good sequel should, including a phenomenal soundtrack collaboratively composed by Junichi Masuda and Go Ichinose.

Notable tracks include the New Bark Town theme, a soft, peaceful melody only hinting at the grand adventure to come; the Azalea Town theme with it’s soothing atmosphere; and the Goldenrod City theme, a uniquely “urban” track that meshed well with the town’s casino and hidden Team Rocket hideout.

Of course, one cannot mention an early “Pokémon” soundtrack without paying tribute to the Route 27 theme, a booming and triumphant track (by Gameboy standards) that firmly reminds the player they are indeed exploring the famed Kanto region. And with almost two hours of music packed onto one bulky brick cart.

I’ve tried to include the best songs from the game into one tribute album. I hope it will help you to re-live the raw spirit of adventure from Pokémon in the early Game Boy days!